A wireless communication game system includes at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device transmits a parent device program and game data for distribution and generation information indicating what generation the data for distribution belongs to when counting from the one in the parent device. Each of the child devices receives the data for distribution and executes the parent device program to update the generation information and transmit to another plurality of child devices the parent device program and game data for distribution and the updated generation information.
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1. A short-distance wireless communications system including at least a first machine and a plurality of second machines that are configured to participate in short-distance wireless communication with each other, wherein:
said first machine includes a first transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data to said second machine through said short-distance wireless communication; and
each said second machine includes:
a receiver configured to receive at least one of a program and data transmitted by said first machine through said short-distance wireless communication, and
a second transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data received by said receiver to another of said second machines through said short-distance wireless communication.
7. A short-distance wireless communications method in a system including at least a first machine and a plurality of second machines that are configured to participate in short-distance wireless communication with each other, the method comprising:
transmitting from said first machine includes a first transmitter at least one of a program and data to said second machine through said short-distance wireless communication,
wherein each said second machine includes:
a receiver configured to receive at least one of a program and data transmitted by said first machine through said short-distance wireless communication, and
a second transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data received by said receiver to another of said second machines through said short-distance wireless communication.
19. A first machine in a short-distance wireless communications system including a plurality of second machines, the first machine and the plurality of second machines being configured to participate in short-distance wireless communication with each other, the first machine comprising:
a first transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data to said second machine through said short-distance wireless communication,
wherein each said second machine includes:
a receiver configured to receive at least one of a program and data transmitted by said first machine through said short-distance wireless communication, and
a second transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data received by said receiver to another of said second machines through said short-distance wireless communication.
13. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing a short-distance wireless communications program for use in a system including at least a first machine and a plurality of second machines that are configured to participate in short-distance wireless communication with each other, the program being executable to perform a method comprising:
transmitting from said first machine includes a first transmitter at least one of a program and data to said second machine through said short-distance wireless communication,
wherein each said second machine includes:
a receiver configured to receive at least one of a program and data transmitted by said first machine through said short-distance wireless communication, and
a second transmitter configured to transmit at least one of a program and data received by said receiver to another of said second machines through said short-distance wireless communication.
2. The system of
3. The system of
the first transmitter is further configured to transmit generation information along with the program data and the data,
each said second machine is configured to renew the generation information, and
the second transmitter is further configured to transmit the generation information along with the program data and the data.
4. The system of
5. The system of
6. The system of
8. The method of
9. The method of
each said second machine is configured to renew the generation information, and
the second transmitter is further configured to transmit the generation information along with the program data and the data.
10. The method of
11. The method of
12. The method of
14. The storage medium of
15. The storage medium of
each said second machine is configured to renew the generation information, and
the second transmitter is further configured to transmit the generation information along with the program data and the data.
16. The storage medium of
17. The storage medium of
18. The storage medium of
20. The first machine of
21. The first machine of
the first transmitter is further configured to transmit generation information along with the program data and the data,
each said second machine is configured to renew the generation information, and
the second transmitter is further configured to transmit the generation information along with the program data and the data.
22. The first machine of
23. The first machine of
24. The first machine of
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This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/037,183, filed Jan. 19, 2005, which claims the benefit of JP 2004-12296, filed on Jan. 20, 2004, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in this application.
The illustrative embodiments relate to a wireless communication game system and a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program. More specifically, the illustrative embodiments relate to a wireless communication game system and a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program used for the game system, including at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another.
One example of a conventional wireless communication game system is disclosed in patent document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laying-open No. 2000-135380). In this patent document 1, a prescribed number (e.g. four) of game apparatuses are configured in such a manner that, taking a period of time during which transmission/reception of communication data makes a round among the game apparatuses, this cycle is divided into four and allocated to each game apparatus, and each game apparatus transmits communication data in order for each allocated period of time.
According to this patent document 1, since there is a limit placed on the number of game apparatuses capable of performing wireless communications, it is difficult to transmit communication data to more game apparatuses in a short period of time. With wireless communications, there is generally a limit to the number of child devices with which a parent device can communicate simultaneously. If an attempt is made to increase the number of child devices with which a parent device can communicate simultaneously, problems, such as a decrease in an amount of data transmittable at one communication step and a decline in a degree of communication accuracy, may occur.
One aspect of the illustrative embodiments provides a novel wireless communication game system and a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program.
Another aspect of the illustrative embodiments provides a wireless communication game system and a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program that can transmit data from a parent device to more child devices in a short period of time.
A further aspect of the illustrative embodiments provides a wireless communication game system and a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program that, in transmitting data in order from a parent device to child devices and from the child devices to other child devices, using wireless communications, makes it possible to transmit information indicating what generation the data belongs to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device.
A wireless communication game system according to the illustrative embodiments includes at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device comprises a first data storage means for storing at least a parent device program and game data, a first communication means for communicating wirelessly with a plurality of child devices, and a first connection means for searching for a plurality of communicable child devices and establishing connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting data for connection, using the first communication means. Each of the child devices comprises a second communication means for communicating wirelessly with the parent device and a second connection means for searching for the communicable parent device and establishing connection with the parent device by receiving the data for connection, using the second communication means. The parent device further comprises a transmission means for transmitting, using the first communication means, the parent device program and the game data stored in the first data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established by the first connection means and the second connection means. Each of the child devices further comprises a reception means for receiving, using the second communication means, the parent device program and the game data from the parent device with which connection is established by the first connection means and the second connection means, a second data storage means for storing the parent device program and the game data received by the reception means in a writable and readable manner, and a parent device processing means for executing the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. The parent device processing means executes the parent device program to search for another plurality of communicable child devices and establish connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting the data for connection, using the second communication means, and transmits, using the second communication means, the parent device program and the game data stored in the second data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established.
More specifically, the wireless communication game system includes at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. In an embodiment described later, a handheld game apparatus (10) (reference numeral corresponding to one in the preferred embodiments. The same is applied to following numerals.) is employed, for example. A first data storage means (42) provided to the parent device stores at least a parent device program (68) and game data (76). In addition, a first communication means (14) is intended for wireless communications with a plurality of child devices. A first connection means (22, 66, S3 to S11) searches for a plurality of communicable child devices and establishes connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting data for connection using the first communication means. Meanwhile, a second communication means (14) provided to each child device is intended for wireless communications with the parent device. A second communication means (22, S101 to S115) searches for a communicable parent device and establishes connection with the parent device by receiving the data for connection using the second communication means. Moreover, a transmission means (22, 66, S21) of the parent device transmits, using the first communication means, the parent device program and the game data stored in the first data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established by the first connection means and the second connection means. Then, a reception means (22, S121) of each of the child devices receives, using the second communication means, the parent device program and the game data from the parent device with which connection is established by the first connection means and the second connection means. A second data storage means (22, 28, 86, S123) stores the parent device program and the game data received by the reception means in a writable and readable manner. A parent device processing means (22, S125) executes the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. Also, the parent device processing means executes the parent device program to search for another plurality of communicable child devices and establish connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting the data for connection, using the second communication means (S139 to S147), and transmits the parent device program and the game data stored in the second data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established (S157). In this manner, child devices receiving the parent device program and the game data from the parent device can then transmit the data to other child devices in sequence as tentative parent devices by executing the parent device program. Consequently, it is possible to transmit data to more child devices in a short period of time.
In one illustrative embodiment, the first data storage means (64) stores generation information indicating what generation the parent device program and the game data belong to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device. The transmission means transmits the generation information in addition to the parent device program and the game data. The reception means receives the generation information in addition to the parent device program and the game data. The second data storage means (88) stores the generation information received by the reception means. The parent device processing means updates the generation information stored in the second data storage means (S135), and transmits to each of the child devices the updated generation information in addition to the parent device program and the game data. Accordingly, the generation information transmitted together with the parent device program and the game data is updated in a child device, and the updated generation information is transmitted at time of data transmission to another child device, which allows the child devices to recognize what generation the received data belongs to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device.
In another illustrative embodiment, each of the child devices further comprises a second game processing means (20, 72, S163) for processing the game data stored in the second data storage means according to instructions from a player. The second game processing means determines whether or not the updated generation information has a first value (S173, S183) and changes a game process depending on whether or not it is determined that the generation information has the first value. Thus the child device changes the game process based on a result of determination on the updated generation information, that is, the child device produces variations in details of the game according to the value of the generation information. This makes it possible to realize a more surprising, interesting game system.
In another illustrative embodiment, the parent device processing means determines whether or not the updated generation information has a second value (S137) and, when determining that the generation information has the second value, deactivates a process of transmitting the parent device program and the game data. Therefore, when the updated generation information has reached a prescribed second value in a child device, the child device no longer performs data transmission after that. This makes it possible to avoid unlimited data transmission.
In still another illustrative embodiment, the parent device processing means transmits successful reception data to the parent device, in response to reception of the parent device program and the game data by the reception means (S131). The parent device further comprises a number-of-successful-transmissions storage means and a display means. The number-of-successful-transmissions storage means (22, 28, 44, S59 to S61) of the parent device stores the number of successful transmissions in an updatable manner, based on the successful reception data received from each child device via the first communication means. Also, the display means (18, 20, S1, S63) displays the number of successful transmissions stored in the number-of-successful-transmissions storage means. In this way, since the number of successful transmissions is updated based on the successful reception data transmitted from the child device and is displayed, the parent device can notify the player of the number of child devices to which data transmission has succeeded. As a consequence, this can raise the player's motivation for performing wireless communications. Additionally, it is possible to suggest such a game as making players having parent devices vie with each other in the number of successful transmissions.
In another aspect, the parent device further comprises a determination means and a first game processing means. The determination means (22, S73, S83) of the parent device determines whether or not the number of successful transmissions stored in the number-of-successful-transmissions storage means is a third value. The first game processing means (20, 70, S29) processes the game data stored in the first data storage means according to instructions from the player. Also, the first game processing means changes a game process depending on whether or not the determination means determines that the number of successful transmissions is the third value. Accordingly, the parent device changes the game process based on a determination result, that is, the parent device produces variations in details of the game according to the number of successful transmissions. This makes it possible to realize a more surprising, interesting game system.
A wireless communication game system according to the illustrative embodiments is a wireless communication game system including at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device comprises a first data storage means for storing at least a parent device program, game data, and generation information indicating what generation the parent device program and the game data belong to, in relation to the original data stored in the parent device, a first communication means for communicating wirelessly with a plurality of child devices, and a transmission means for transmitting the parent device program, the game data, and the generation information stored in the first data storage means, to each of the child devices, using the first communication means. Each of the child devices comprises a second communication means for communicating wirelessly with the parent device, a reception means for receiving the parent program, the game data, and the generation information from the parent device, using the second communication means, a second data storage means for storing the parent device program, the game data, and the generation information received by the reception means, in a writable and readable manner, and a parent device processing means for executing the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. The parent device processing means executes the parent device program to update the generation information stored in the second data storage means and transmit the parent device program, the game data and the updated generation means stored in the second data storage means, to another plurality of child devices, using the second communication means.
More specifically, the wireless communication game system includes at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. In an illustrative embodiment described later, a handheld game apparatus (10) is employed, for example. A first data storage means (42) provided to the parent device stores at least a parent device program (68), game data (76) and generation information (64) indicating what generation the parent device program and the game data belong to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device. A first communication means (14) is intended for wireless communications with a plurality of child devices. Also, a transmission means (22, 66, S21) transmits the parent device program, the game data and the generation information stored in the first data storage means, to each child device, using the first communication means. Meanwhile, a second communication means (14) provided to the child device is intended for wireless communications with the parent device. A reception means (22, S121) receives the parent device program, the game data and the generation information from the parent device with the use of the second communication means. A second data storage means (22, 28, 86, S123) stores the parent device program, the game data and the generation information received by the reception means, in a writable and readable manner. A parent device processing means (22, S125) executes the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. Additionally, the parent device processing means executes the parent device program to update the generation information stored in the second data storage means (S135) and transmit the parent device program, the game data and the updated generation information stored in the second data storage means, to another plurality of child devices, using the second communication means (S157). In this manner, the parent device transmits, to child devices, the parent device program, the game data and the generation information indicating what generation the data belongs to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device. Then the child devices receiving this information update the generation information and transmit the data and the generation information to other child devices, acting as tentative parent devices, in response to the execution of the parent device program. Accordingly, it is possible to send data to more child devices in a short period of time and allow the child devices receiving the data to recognize what generation the data belongs to.
A storage medium storing a wireless communication game program according to an illustrative embodiment is a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program for a wireless communication game system including at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device comprises a first data storage means for storing at least a parent device program and game data, and a first communication means for communicating wirelessly with a plurality of child devices. Each of the child devices comprises a second communication means for wirelessly communicating with the parent device and a second data storage means for storing, in a writable and readable manner, the data received using the second communication means. The wireless communication game program causes a processor of the parent device to execute a first connection step of searching for a plurality of communicable child devices and establishing connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting data for connection using the first communication means. The wireless communication game program causes a processor of the child device to execute a second connection step of searching for the communicable parent device and establishing connection with the parent device by receiving the data for connection with the use of the second communication means. The wireless communication game program causes the processor of the parent device to execute a transmission step of transmitting the parent device program and the game data stored in the first data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established by the first connection step and the second connection step. The wireless communication game program causes the processor of the child device to execute a reception step of receiving the parent device program and the game data from the parent device with which connection is established by the first connection step and the second connection step and storing them in the second data storage means, and a parent device processing step of executing the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. In the parent device processing step, the parent device program is executed to search for another plurality of communicable child devices and establish connection with each of the child devices by broadcasting the data for connection with the use of the second communication means, and transmit the parent device program and the game data stored in the second data storage means to each of the child devices with which connection is established.
In the storage medium storing the wireless communication game program as well as the above described wireless communication game system, child devices receiving data from the parent device transmit the data to other child devices in sequence as next parent devices, which allows data transmission to more child devices in a short period of time.
A storage medium storing a wireless communication game program according to an illustrative embodiment is a storage medium storing a wireless communication game program for a wireless communication game system including at least one parent device and a plurality of child devices that can communicate wirelessly with one another. The parent device comprises a first data storage means for storing at least a parent device program, game data, and generation information indicating what generation the parent device program and the game data belong to when counting from the ones in the parent device, and a first communication means for communicating wirelessly with a plurality of child devices. Each of the child devices comprises a second communication means for communicating wirelessly with the parent device and a second data storage means for storing the data received with use of the second communication means in a writable and readable manner. The wireless communication game program causes a processor of the parent device to execute a transmission step of transmitting the parent device program, the game data and the generation information stored in the first data storage means to each child device, using the first communication means. The wireless communication game program causes a processor of the child device to execute a reception step of receiving the parent device program, the game data and the generation information from the parent device, using the second communication means and storing them in the second data storage means, and a parent device processing step of executing the parent device program stored in the second data storage means. The parent device processing step executes the parent device program to update the generation information stored in the second data storage means and transmit the parent device program, the game data and the updated generation information stored in the second data storage means to another plurality of child devices, using the second communication means. In the storage medium storing the wireless communication game program as well as the above described wireless communication game system, it is possible to transmit data to more child devices in a short period of time and allow the child devices receiving the data to recognize what generation the data belongs to.
According to an illustrative embodiment, child devices receiving data from the parent device transmit the data to other child devices in sequence, as tentative parent devices, which allows data transmission to more child devices in a short period of time.
Moreover, in transmitting data in sequence from the parent device to child devices and from the child devices to other child devices, in a case where the data includes the generation information, each of the child devices can recognize what generation the received data belongs to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device.
The above described other features and aspects of the illustrative embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
In one illustrative embodiment a wireless communication game system employs a handheld game apparatus 10 as shown in
In this embodiment, the handheld game apparatus 10 includes a handheld game machine 12 such as GameBoy Advance (GAMEBOY ADVANCE: product name), a wireless communication unit 14 connected to a communication connector 46 of the handheld game machine 12, and a cartridge 16 connected to a cartridge connector 40.
The handheld game machine 12 shown in
The handheld game machine 12 has the cartridge connector 40, and the cartridge 16 is connected with or inserted into this cartridge connector 40. The cartridge 16 contains a ROM 42 and a backup RAM 44. The ROM 42 stores, in advance, a game program and data for a game to be executed in the handheld game machine 12, together with a game name, a user name, etc. The backup RAM 44 is intended to store (save) data for a game still in progress and data for a result of the game.
Additionally, described in this embodiment is an operation in an OC mode (one-cartridge mode: a mode in which only the parent device has the game cartridge attached, and the child device operates upon downloading of a program and data for distribution from the parent device cartridge 16). Thus the cartridge 16 is attached to the parent device only, whereas the cartridge 16 does not need to be attached to the child device.
When the handheld game machine 12 is powered on, the CPU core 22 executes a boot program stored in the boot ROM 24 to perform a starting process for the handheld game machine 12. After that, the CPU core 22 executes a game program stored in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16 and performs a game process while storing temporary data in execution in the writable and readable WRAM 28. Additionally, image data generated by the CPU core 22 to execute the game program is stored in the VRAM 30. The image data stored in the VRAM 30 is output to the LCD 18 by the LCD controller 26.
The handheld game machine 12 is further provided with the communication connector 46. The communication connector 46 is engaged with the connector 48 of the wireless communication unit 14.
The wireless communication unit 14 is a communication means for communicating with another handheld game apparatus 10 in a short-distance wireless manner, for example, which includes a base band IC 50. The base band IC 50 includes a ROM 52. The ROM 52 fixedly stores such programs as a child device program for communications between the parent device and the child devices described later, and such data as a game name, a user name, etc. The base band IC 50 operates based on the programs, etc. in the ROM 52.
The base band IC 50 sends out data (programs, game data, etc.) forwarded from the game machine 12 via the communication connector 46 and the connector 48, and data including a user name, etc. in the ROM 52 or the ROM 42 to an RF (Radio Frequency)-IC 54. The RF-IC 54 modulates the data and transmits a radio wave from an antenna 56. However, an intensity of the radio wave is extremely weak, and is set to so small a value that a user can use it without a license under a regulation of Radio Law. In addition, this wireless communication unit 14 is provided with a power circuit 58. Typically, the power circuit 58 is a battery, and supplies a direct-current power source to each component of the wireless communication unit 14.
The wireless communication unit 14 also receives the radio wave transmitted from another handheld game apparatus 10 by the antenna 56, demodulates it by the RF-IC 54, and inputs a demodulated signal into the base band IC 50. Therefore, the base band IC 50 decodes the demodulated signal to reconstruct the data, and forwards the data to the handheld game machine 12, that is, the WRAM 28, via the connector 48 and the communication connector 46.
The wireless communication game system of one illustrative embodiment employs a plurality of handheld game apparatuses 10 as shown in
In this game system, data is distributed from the parent device to the plurality of child devices. As an example, conceivable is such a situation in which, at an event venue or the like, an event organizer having a parent device distributes data to a plurality of assembled users with handheld game apparatuses 10.
More specifically, the parent device operates in accordance with a parent device program for self-processing 66 described later or the like stored in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16, searches for a plurality of child devices existing within the communicable range and establishes connection with each of the child devices, and transmits data for distribution (game program and game data) to the plurality of child devices with which connection is established. The child devices receiving the data for distribution from the parent device stores the received data in the WRAM 28. In
After that, each of the child devices operates in accordance with a parent device program for distribution 68 described later or the like stored in the WRAM 28, searches for another plurality of child devices existing within the communicable range as a temporary (tentative) parent device, and transmits the program and data for distribution stored in the WRAM 28 to the other plurality of child devices. Additionally, in
Moreover, each of the child devices (the child devices 5 to 20 in the
In this manner, in the game system, at least one parent device transmits data for distribution to a plurality of child devices, and then each of the child devices receiving the data transmits the data for distribution to another plurality of child devices as a tentative parent device. This makes it possible to transmit the data to a plurality of handheld game apparatus 10 in sequence. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to distribute data to a greater number of game apparatuses 10 in a short period of time.
Additionally, in this embodiment, generation information n is set to indicate what generation the transmitted program and data belong to in relation to the original data stored in the parent device. As shown in
Based on the generation information, the child device can produce variations in details of the game, for example, which allow the game to be more surprising and interesting. For example, it is possible to change kinds of characters, stages, etc. for the game by making a game process different depending on whether or not the generation information satisfies a prescribed condition. As the prescribed condition, a magnitude relationship is evaluated between the value of the generation information and a prescribed value (first value), for example. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the generation information is equal to the prescribed value, or whether the value of the generation information is larger or smaller than the prescribed value.
In addition, it is possible to restrict data distribution based on the generation information. More specifically, when the generation information has reached a prescribed value (second value), the child device can deactivate a data transmission process after that to prevent data from being continuously transmitted without limitation.
Moreover, in this embodiment, the number of successful transmissions m is set to show the number of child devices to which the transmission of data for distribution has succeeded. Thus, the number of successful transmissions in makes it possible to recognize how many child devices to which the data has been successfully distributed from the parent device (n=1). More specifically, in response to the reception of the program and data from the parent device or a tentative parent device, each of the child devices transmits successful reception data to the parent device (n=1) that is a source of transmission of the data for distribution. Upon reception of the successful reception data, the parent device) updates the number of successful transmissions m based on the successful reception data, and stores the updated number of successful transmissions m. However, it is necessary that the child device transmitting the successful reception data and the parent device (n=1) exist within each other's communicable range. Also, an arrow linking the child device 5 and the parent device, shown as an example in
The parent device displays the number of successful transmissions m on the display means LCD 18, for example. In this case, it is possible to let the player of the parent device know the number of child devices to which data transmission has succeeded. This further motivates the user having the parent device with the cartridge 16 attached, to perform wireless communications. Additionally, it is possible to suggest such a game in which players having the parent devices compete in the number of successful transmissions.
Moreover, based on the number of successful transmissions m, the parent device can produce variations in the details of the game, for example, which makes the game more surprising and enjoyable. For example, it is possible to change the kinds of characters, stages, etc. by making a game process different depending on whether or not the number of successful transmissions satisfies a prescribed condition. As the prescribed condition, a magnitude relationship is evaluated between the number of the successful transmissions and a prescribed value (third value), for example. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the generation information is equal to the prescribed value, or whether the value of the generation information is larger or smaller than the prescribed value.
Subsequently, descriptions will be given as to data packet formats for wireless communications between the parent device and the child devices. A data cycle (one communication cycle) includes one parent device slot and a plurality of child device slots. In this embodiment, four child device slots are provided, for example, and the parent device thus can communicate wirelessly with up to four child devices at a time. In the parent device slot, a parent device packet as shown in
As shown in
The parent device packet further includes a flag OC. The flag OC is a flag indicating whether or not it is possible to adapt to the above described one cartridge (OC) mode. More specifically, when this flag OC is reset, that is, when OC=0, this means that the game cartridge of the parent device at that time is not adaptable to the OC mode, or that it is adaptable to the OC mode but operates currently in the normal mode. When the flag OC is set, that is, when OC=1, this means that the game cartridge of the parent device is adaptable to the OC mode and currently operates in the OC mode.
The parent device packet includes fields ESlot, USlot, and Payload in this order subsequent to the flag OC. The E slot field Eslot stores slot numbers for the child device slots available for entry (participation). More specifically, it stores the child device slot numbers for child devices that are about to newly participate. The U slot field USlot stores a usage status of the child device slots. More specifically, the U slot field USlot includes four areas in this embodiment, for example, and each of the four areas corresponds to each of the four child device slots. Then, each of the areas stores the number (identifying code) CID for the child device that is assigned the corresponding child device slot. When the child device number CID is registered, it can be seen that the child device slot corresponding to that area is in use. Therefore, in the parent device packet data indicating that connection to the parent device is available, the E slot field is assigned a child device slot or the U slot field has an area with no child device identifying code registered.
The payload field Payload is a field for storing substantial data transmitted from the parent device to the child device. More specifically, this is a field for transmitting such data as connection response, parent device program for distribution, game process program for distribution, game data for distribution, generation information, and other required game data.
The program area 60 stores in advance the parent device program for self-processing 66, the parent device program for distribution 68, the game process program for self-processing 70, the game process program for distribution 72, etc. The parent device program for self-processing 66 is a program that can be processed in the device (parent device) itself and executed in the ROM 42, and also is a program for the parent device to connect with a plurality of child devices existing within the communicable range and transmit the program and data for distribution to the child devices. The parent device program for distribution 68 is a program distributed to the child devices and executed in the WRAM 28 of each distribution target device, and it is also a program for the child device to connect with another plurality of child devices existing within the communicable range and transmit the program and data for distribution stored in the WRAM 28 to the other plurality of child devices, acting as a tentative parent device. The game process program for self-processing 70 is a program that can be processed in the parent device and executed in the ROM 42, and it is also a program for the parent device to execute a game process using the game data for self-processing. The game process program for distribution 72 is a program distributed to the child devices and executed in the WRAM 28 of each delivery target device, and it is also a program for the child device to execute a game process in the same way, using the game data for distribution distributed to the child device.
The game data area 62 stores game data for self-processing 74, game data for distribution 76, etc., in advance. The game data for self-processing 74 is data required for execution of the game in the device (parent device) itself, and includes a plurality of kinds of character data, such as character A data, character B data and character C data, and a plurality of kinds of stage data, such as normal stage data and hidden stage data, for example. The game data for distribution 76 is data distributed to the child devices and required for execution of the game in each distribution target device, and includes a plurality of kinds of character data such as character A data, character B data and character C data, and a plurality of kinds of stage data such as normal stage data and hidden stage data, as in case with the game data for self-processing 74.
Additionally, in this embodiment, the parent device program, the game process program and the game data are each prepared in two separated forms for self-processing and for distribution. However, the two forms of data are almost the same with basically identical processing procedures, and thus it may be possible to store the common parent device program, game process program and game data in the ROM 42 in advance and distribute them to the child devices.
The generation information area 64 stores the above described generation information n in advance. The generation information n is set to “1”, denoting the parent device. The generation information is transmitted to the child devices and updated in the WRAM 28 of each of the child devices, as in the case of the above stated parent device program for distribution 68, game process program for distribution 72 and game data for distribution 76. It is noted that the generation information n may be included in the parent device program for distribution 68.
Moreover, although not shown in
Descriptions will be given below regarding the operation of the parent device in this game system referring to
Next, the processor 20 starts a child device search in a step S3 to seek for child devices to which data is to be transmitted, and broadcasts the data for connection to them, using the wireless communication unit 14 in a step S5. The data for connection broadcasted here indicates the availability of connection with the parent device.
In a succeeding step S7, the processor 20 determines whether or not a connection request is received from the child devices. If “NO”, the process moves directly to a step S13. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S7, the processor 20 transmits a connection response, in a succeeding step S9, to the child devices which have transmitted a connection request. Then, in a step S11, the processor 20 performs a process for successful connection, such as storing identifying codes for the successfully connected child devices in association with the child device slots to be used, and counting the number of successfully connected child devices.
In a step S13, the processor 20 determines whether or not the number of successfully connected child devices is larger than 0. If “NO” in the step S13, that is, if no connection with any child device has yet succeeded, the process returns to the step S5 for continuation of a connection attempt.
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S13, the processor 20 determines in a succeeding step S15 whether or not to begin communications. For example, the processor 20 displays a button, or the like, on the screen, to issue instruction to start communications, as well as the number of successfully connected child devices, and determines whether or not the A button included in the operation key 38 has been operated. In this case, it is possible to leave the start of communications (transmission of data for distribution) to the discretion of the player of the parent device. For example, the user of the parent device who wishes for a connection with four child devices, may wait without pressing the A button until four devices are available. Additionally, in this step S15, communications may be automatically started by determining whether or not the number of successfully connected child devices has reached a prescribed number, or by letting a certain amount of time elapse, for example.
If “NO” in the step S15, the processor 20 determines whether or not the number of successfully connected child devices is four, a maximum number in this embodiment. If “NO” in the step S17, the process returns to the step S5 to further attempt connection with other child devices. If “YES”, the process returns to the step S15 to wait for the start of communications.
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S15, that is, if communications are to be started, the processor 20 terminates the child device search in a step S19. Then, in a step S21, the data for distribution, stored in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16, is transmitted to each of the successfully connected child devices. The data to be transmitted here includes the parent device program for distribution 68, the game process program for distribution 72, the game data for distribution 76, the generation information, etc. When the step S21 is completed, the process moves to a step S23 of
In the next step S23 of
In a succeeding step S25, the processor 20 determines whether or not to perform the process of data transmission to child devices again. For example, the processor 20 displays such a message as “Search for other child devices?” on the menu screen to make the player of the parent device select with the A button of the operation key 38 whether or not to execute a child device search. If “YES” in the step S25, the process returns to the step S3 of
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S25, the processor 20 determines whether or not to play the game in a step S27. That is, the processor 20 determines whether or not the operation key 38 has been operated by the player to issue instruction to play the game. If “YES” in the step S27, the processor 20 executes a game process 1 in a step S29 according to the instruction from the player. Details of this process are shown in
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S27, or when the step S29 is completed, the processor 20 determines in a succeeding step S31 whether or not to end the parent device process. If “NO” in the step S31, the process returns to the step S23. If “YES”, the parent device process is terminated.
In a step S51, the processor 20 determines whether or not the number of successfully connected child devices is larger than 0. If “NO”, the process moves to a step S67. If “YES”, the process moves to a step S53. Descriptions on a process of a step S53 to a step S57 are omitted here because it is the same as the process of the step S15 to the step S19 of
In a step S59, the processor 20 determines whether or not the successful reception data is received from each child device. If “NO” in the step S59, the process moves to a step S67. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S59, the processor 20 increments and updates the number of successful transmissions m in a step S61. In this embodiment, the updated number of successful transmissions m is written into the number-of-successful-transmissions area 78 of the backup RAM 44. Subsequently, an area for displaying the number of successful transmissions m in the VRAM 30 is updated in a step S63. This allows the updated number of successful transmissions to be displayed on the LCD 18.
Then, in a step S65, the processor determines whether or not the successful reception data is received from other child devices as well. If “YES”, the process returns to the step S61 to update the value and display of the number of successful transmissions m. If “NO”, the process goes to a step S67.
In the step S67, the processor 20 determines whether or not to continue waiting for the successful reception data. For example, the processor 20 determines whether or not a certain amount of time has not elapsed after the start of this waiting process, or whether or not the operation key 38 has been operated by the player to instruct whether or not to continue the waiting process, etc. If “YES” in this step S67, that is, if the waiting process is to be continued, the process returns to the step S41. If “NO”, the process is ended and returns to the step S25 of
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S73, the processor 20 reads out the character B data from the game data for self-processing 74 in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16 and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S79, and then lets the character A appear on the game screen and displays it on the LCD 18 in a step S81. The character B is a bonus character to be offered because the number of successful transmissions is made larger than a prescribed value (30 in this embodiment). When the step S81 is completed, the process goes to a step S83.
In the step S83, the processor 20 determines whether or not the number of successful transmissions is “60” or more, for example. If “NO” in this step S83, the processor 20 reads out the normal stage data from the game data for self-processing 74 in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16 and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S85, and then displays a normal stage on the game screen in a step S87. When the step S87 is completed, the process moves to a step S93.
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S83, the processor 20 reads out hidden stage data from the game data for self-processing 74 in the ROM 42 of the cartridge 16, and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S89, and then displays a hidden stage on the game screen in a step S91. The hidden stage is also a bonus stage to be offered because the number of successful transmissions is made larger than a prescribed value (60 in this embodiment). When the step S91 is completed, the process moves to a step S93.
In the step S93, the processor 20 executes a process for the progress of the game based on the player's operation, that is, based on operation input from the operation key 38. It is noted that, in the process for the progress of the game, the game may be performed by the parent device alone, or the communication game may be performed in communication with the child devices within the communicable range. Then, in a step S95, the processor 20 determines whether or not to end the game. If “NO”, the process returns to the step S93. If “YES”, the game process 1 is terminated and returned to the step S31 of
In this manner, the parent device decides the kinds of characters and stages to appear in accordance with the value of the number of successful transmissions m, and performs the game using these characters and stages. It is noted that “30” in the step S73 and “60” in the step S83 are just examples, and that a prescribed value (third value) for determining the number of successful transmissions m may be changed as necessary.
Returning to
In a succeeding step S111, the processor 20 transmits a connection request to the selected parent device, and then determines whether or not a connection response is received from the parent device in a step S113. If “NO” in the step S113, the process returns to the step S101 to start the parent device search again. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S113, the processor 20 performs a process for successful connection in a step S115 to store the identifying code for the successfully connected parent device and the child slot to be used, for example.
Subsequently, in a step S117, the processor 20 determines whether or not instruction for data transmission is issued from the parent device. If “NO”, the processor 20 determines in a step S119 whether or not transmission is canceled, that is, whether or not the B button of the operation key 38 has been operated. If “YES” in the step S119, the process returns to the step S101 to start the parent device search again. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S119, the process returns to the step S117.
Meanwhile, if “YES” in the step S117, the processor 20 receives the data transmitted from the parent device in a step S121, and writes the received data for distribution into the received data storage area 86 of the WRAM 28 in a step S123 (
In the next step S125 of
Subsequently, in a step S129, the processor 20 determines whether or not connection with the parent device that is the source of data transmission, has succeeded, for example. More specifically, the processor 20 determines whether or not the connection response transmitted from the parent device in the step S47 of
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S129, the processor 20 determines whether or not a certain amount of time has elapsed after the start of the parent device search, for example, in a step S133. If “NO” in the step S133, the process returns to the step S129. If “YES”, the processor 20 terminates the parent device search and moves directly to a step S135 without transmitting the successful reception data.
Then, in a step S135, the processor 20 increments the generation information n written in the WRAM 28 to update the generation information of this child device.
Subsequently, in a step S137, the processor 20 determines whether or not the updated generation information n is equal to a prescribed value (“15” in this embodiment). This prescribed value (second value) is set as a threshold value for deactivating the process of transmitting the data for distribution. If “YES” in this step S137, that is, if the updated generation information has the second value, the processor 20 advances the process to a step S161 of
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S137, that is, if a condition for limitation of data distribution is not fulfilled, the processor 20 starts a child device search in a step S139 to seek for another plurality of child devices to which data is to be distributed. Descriptions on a process of the step S139 to a step S149 of
In a step S157 of
Subsequently, in a step S159, the processor 20 determines whether or not to perform the process of data transmission to the child devices again. Here, as in case with the step S25 of
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S159, the processor 20 determines in a step S161 whether or not to play the game. More specifically, the processor 20 determines whether or not there is the operation of the operation key 38 from the player to instruct for game playing, for example. If “YES” in the step S161, the processor 20 execute a game process 2 in a step S163. Details of this process are shown in
On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S161, or when the step S163 is completed, the processor 20 determines in a succeeding step S165 whether or not to end the child device process. If “NO” in the step S165, the process returns to the step S159. If “YES”, the child device process is terminated.
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S173, the processor 20 reads out the character C data from the game data for distribution 76 in the WRAM 28 and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S179, and then lets the character C appear on the game screen and display it on the LCD 18 in a step S181. The character C is a bonus character to be offered to the child device whose generation information has a prescribed value. When the step S181 is completed, the process moves to a step S183.
In the step S183, the processor 20 determines whether or not the generation information n is “10”, for example. If “NO” in the step S183, the processor 20 reads out the normal stage data from the game data for distribution 76 in the WRAM 28 and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S185, and then displays the normal stage on the game screen in a step S187. When the step S187 is completed, the process moves to a step S193.
On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S183, the processor 20 reads out the hidden stage data from the game data for distribution 76 in the WRAM 28 and writes it into the VRAM 30 in a step S189, and then displays the hidden stage on the game screen in a step S191. The hidden stage is a bonus stage to be offered to the child device whose generation information has a prescribed value. When the step S191 is completed, the process moves to a step S193.
In the step S193, the processor 20 performs the process for the progress of the game based on the player's operation, that is, based on operation input from the operation key 38. It is noted that, in the process for the progress of the game, the game may be performed by the child device alone, or the communication game may be performed in communications between the parent device and the child devices within the communicable range. Then, in a step S195, the processor 20 determines whether or not to end the game. If “NO”, the process returns to the step S193. If “YES”, the game process 2 is ended and returns to the step S165 of
In this manner, the child device decides the kinds of characters and stages to appear in accordance with the value of generation information n, and performs the game using these characters and stages. It is noted that “5” in the step S173 and “10” in the step S183 are just examples, and that a prescribed value (first value) for determining the generation information n may be changed as necessary.
Additionally, although the successful reception data is transmitted directly to the parent device that is the transmission source (n=1) in each of the above described embodiments, it may be possible instead to transmit the successful reception data to the tentative parent devices that have transmitted the received data, tracing back to them in sequence, so that the successful reception data is finally transmitted to the parent device being a transmission source (n=1). By doing this, the successful reception data can be reliably transmitted in a case where the tentative parent devices remain within the communicable range. This makes it possible to increase the success rate of transmission of successful reception data as compared to a case where the data is transmitted directly from each child device to the parent device being a transmission source (n=1).
Although the present invention has been described and illustrated in detail, it is clearly understood that the same is by way of illustration and example only and is not to be taken by way of limitation, the spirit and scope of the present invention being limited only by the terms of the appended claims.
Mitsuyoshi, Masaru, Kamikawa, Yoji
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